Tinos Island, a captivating destination in the Cyclades, boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times, as well as a multitude of picturesque villages that each possess their own unique charm.

History of Tinos

Tinos was first inhabited in the Neolithic era, around 4,000 BC. The island flourished during the Classical period when it was known for its worship of Poseidon and Amphitrite, the gods of the sea. The temple of Poseidon at Kiona was a renowned sanctuary and a place of healing.
During the Byzantine era, Tinos was part of the Theme of the Aegean Sea, and during the Venetian rule in the 13th century, the island was fortified against pirate attacks.
The discovery of the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary in 1823 marked a significant turning point in Tinos’ history. The Church of Panagia Evangelistria was built to house the icon, turning Tinos into one of the most important religious sites in Greece.

Villages of Tinos

• Pyrgos: Know as the ‘Marble Village’, it is renowned for its marble sculptures and intricate architecture. The museum of Marble Crafts here offers fasinating insights into the island’s long-standing marble carving tradition.
• Kardiani: Perched on a green hillside and overlooking the Aegean Sea, Kardiani is arguably one of the most beautiful villages in Tinos. Its traditional Cycladic architecure and breathtaking views are truly enchanting.
• Volax: This unique village is surrounded by an otherworldy landscape of round granite rocks. You can often see local artisans at work.
• Isternia: The picturesque village offers stunning views over the Aegean Sea. It consists of charming taverns that serve delicious local cuisine.
• Exombourgo: Located at the foot of the mountain of the same name, Exombourgo village is home to the ruins of a Venetian fortress, offering a glimpse into Tinos’s past.

HOW TO GET TO TINOS

Getting to Tinos Island, a gem in the heart of the Cyclades, is straightforward and offers several options, primarily by sea.

1. From Athens by Ferry: The most common way to get to Tinos is by ferry from Piraeus, the main port of Athens. Ferries to Tinos operate daily, and the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. Fast ferries can get you there in roughly half the time. You’ll enjoy a scenic voyage across the Aegean Sea, possibly stopping at other islands along the way.

2. From Rafina Port by Ferry: Another option is to take a ferry from Rafina Port, which is closer to Athens International Airport and offers multiple daily connections to Tinos. The journey from Rafina is slightly shorter, typically around 3-4 hours.

3. From Mykonos by Ferry: If you’re visiting other islands in the Cyclades, there are also direct ferry routes from them to Tinos. Particularly, there’s a frequent ferry service from nearby Mykonos, which takes about 20-30 minutes, making it very convenient if you’re touring the Greek islands.

4. By Air and Then by Ferry: While Tinos does not have an airport, you can fly to Mykonos or Athens and then catch a ferry to Tinos. Mykonos Airport has regular flights from Athens and several European cities during the summer months. Once you arrive in Mykonos, you can hop on a ferry to Tinos.

Remember to check the ferry schedules in advance, as they can change depending on the season. Booking your ferry tickets online is recommended, especially during the peak summer season when routes can fill up quickly.

Once you arrive in Tinos, you’ll find a range of transportation options, including taxis, car rentals, and public buses, to get you to your final destination on the island.”